Donald Trump is set to sign a controversial executive order today, September 5, to rebrand the Pentagon for the first time in decades—changing the Department of Defense (DOD) to the Department of War. According to documents obtained by the BBC, the administration plans to use “Department of War” as a secondary title, arguing it conveys “a stronger message of readiness and resolve compared to ‘Defense.’”
The order directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to propose steps to make the change permanent. Hegseth, speaking to Fox News, backed the move: “We won WWI and WWII not with the Department of Defense, but with a War Department. We’re not just defense—we’re offense.”
He added that the rebrand reflects a “warrior ethos” emphasizing lethality against enemies. Public reaction has been swift and critical. On social media, users called the idea “stupid,” “wasteful,” and “embarrassing.” Many argued it would damage U.S. credibility abroad and serve little purpose beyond symbolism.
Trump has long praised the War Department, which existed until 1947, citing it as part of America’s “unbelievable history of victory.” The order, expected to be signed today, launches a debate over cost, symbolism, and America’s global image.
